Allan in Wonderland

Chapter 9: Who stole the tarts?

Allan followed everyone into a crowded court room. The White Rabbit gave three on a trumpet and read out the crime.

The King of Hearts, he made some tarts
All on a summer day
The Knave of Hearts, she stole those tarts
And took them quite away!

"Consider your verdict," the Queen ordered the jury.
"Not yet!" cried the Rabbit. "Call the first witness!"
This was the Hatterness, who walked in trembling.
She was shaking so much, both her shoes fell off.


As Allan watched, he felt an odd sensation. He was growing larger.
"She's useless!" said the Queen and sent the Hatterness away. "Next!"
The Duke's Cook came in.
"Give your evidence!" hollered the Queen.

"Shan't!" the Cook annoyed the Queen even more. "Who's next?" she shouted.
Allan wanted to know too. The witnesses so far had been terrible. Imagine his surprise when the White Rabbit called out, "Allan!"